Is it Watering Issues or Billbugs? How to Tell What’s Actually Damaging Your Lawn

It’s frustrating to see your lawn turning yellow or thinning out, especially when you’ve been careful about watering. It’s easy to assume the problem is simply that your lawn needs more water. But here in the Treasure Valley, the real cause could actually be a common pest called billbugs. Knowing how to tell the difference can save you time, money, and is the first step to protecting your lawn.

Dry Spots Don’t Always Mean a Thirsty Lawn

Not all yellow patches are caused by a lack of water. Before you run your sprinklers longer, check to see if the problem is uneven watering or something else entirely. Use a long screwdriver to test the soil. If it slides in easily to about six inches, the area is likely getting enough water. Also look for broken sprinkler heads or poor water coverage in certain zones.

The Signs of Billbug Damage

Billbugs are a common pest problem in the Treasure Valley. These pests feed on lawn roots and can cause serious damage. If your lawn feels spongy or pulls apart easily when you tug on it, you might be dealing with billbugs. Look for hollow grass stems and small white larvae with orange heads in the soil just beneath the lawn.

Still Not Sure? We Can Help

Misdiagnosing the issue can waste time and money, and may cause even more damage to your lawn. If you’re not sure whether your lawn is thirsty or under attack by pests, a professional inspection can pinpoint the cause and help you take the right steps toward recovery. 

If you have any questions about your lawn or would like our licensed technicians to diagnose any lawn issues, gice us a call us today at 208-585-9400. You can also request an estimate for any of our services by clicking here.

At Zing Services, we offer property care services to commercial, residential, and HOA properties in the Treasure Valley, Middleton, Star, ID, and nearby areas in the Treasure Valley. Contact us today to schedule any of our services to help you get a healthy, beautiful property.